Atrial Fibrillation

What Is Atrial Fibrillation?

Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is the most common type of irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia), affecting millions of people around the world.

It happens when the electrical activity in the upper chambers of the heart (the atria) becomes uncoordinated, causing the heart to beat in an irregular and often fast rhythm.

This includes related arrhythmias such as atrial flutter, which can have similar symptoms and complications.

This can affect how well your heart pumps blood and may impact your overall health and quality of life.

In a normal heart, electrical signals make the atria contract in a regular, organized way to push blood into the lower chambers (ventricles).

With AF, these signals become chaotic and disorganized, so the atria “quiver” instead of beating properly.

This irregular beating reduces the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently through the body.

AF may start as short episodes and can become longer or even continuous over time, sometimes resulting in persistent atrial fibrillation.

Common Symptoms

Some people with AF may not notice any symptoms (asymptomatic AF), while others may experience several of the following:

• Palpitations: Feeling like your heart is racing, pounding, or fluttering. Sometimes, people experience a rapid ventricular response that can make palpitations more noticeable.
• Shortness of breath (Dyspnea): Difficulty breathing, especially during activity.
• Fatigue or weakness: Feeling unusually tired or low on energy.
• Chest discomfort: Pressure or tightness in the chest, which can sometimes present as chest pain.
• Dizziness or light-headedness: Feeling faint or unsteady.
• Fainting (Syncope): A brief loss of consciousness.

These symptoms can interfere with daily activities and lower the quality of life for many people.

Causes and Risk Factors

AF is more common as people get older, especially in those over 65. Several health and lifestyle factors can increase the risk of AF:

• Aging: Getting older can cause natural changes in the heart’s structure and function.
• Heart Conditions: High blood pressure, Coronary artery disease or previous heart attack, Heart failure, Heart valve disease, ischemic heart disease.
• Other Medical Conditions: Obesity, Diabetes, Obstructive sleep apnea, Thyroid problems, especially overactive thyroid, Chronic kidney disease, Lung diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
• Lifestyle Factors: Heavy alcohol use, Smoking, Lack of exercise and poor diet.
• Genetics: A family history of AF can increase your risk.

Sometimes, AF can occur even when no clear risk factors are found, suggesting that genes may play an important role.

In some cases, the left atrial appendage can be a source of blood stasis and blood clots associated with AF.

Is Atrial Fibrillation Dangerous?

Although AF is not usually life-threatening on its own, it can lead to serious health problems if left untreated:

• Stroke: The irregular heartbeat can cause blood to pool in the atria, forming clots. If a clot travels to the brain, it can cause a stroke. People with AF have about five times higher risk of stroke compared to others.
• Heart failure: AF can make it harder for the heart to pump blood and may worsen heart failure.
• Cognitive problems and dementia: AF has been linked to memory loss and cognitive decline.
• Higher risk of death: Studies show AF is linked with an increased risk of death from all causes.
• Reduced quality of life: Symptoms like tiredness and anxiety can affect daily life and emotional well-being.

Diagnosis and Treatment

AF is diagnosed using an electrocardiogram (ECG), which shows an irregular heart rhythm and the absence of normal P waves.

An episode lasting at least 30 seconds is enough to confirm the diagnosis. Screening for AF is recommended, especially for people aged 65 and older, even if they have no symptoms.

Atrial fibrillation management focuses on reducing symptoms, preventing complications, and improving quality of life.

1. Preventing Stroke: Blood-thinning medicines (anticoagulants) are often prescribed to prevent clots and lower stroke risk.
2. Controlling Heart Rate: Medicines such as beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, or digoxin help slow the heart rate to a safer level.
3. Restoring Normal Rhythm: The goal is to get the heart back to a normal beat. This can be done through:
1. Antiarrhythmic drugs to stabilize heart rhythm
2. Electrical cardioversion, a short procedure using a controlled electric shock to reset the heart
3. Catheter ablation, a minimally invasive treatment that uses heat or cold energy to block abnormal signals in the heart
4. Managing Risk Factors: Controlling high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity, and making lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and reducing alcohol intake, can greatly help prevent AF from worsening.

In Summary

Atrial Fibrillation is a common but manageable heart condition. With early diagnosis, the right treatment, and healthy habits, most people with AF can live normal and active lives.

If you feel an irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, or dizziness, talk to your doctor. Early detection and treatment are key to preventing stroke and protecting your heart health.

Book an Appointment with Pantai Hospital

Pantai Hospital Ipoh offers exceptional heart care with experienced cardiologists and state-of-the-art facilities.

Our specialists provide personalised treatment plans for conditions like Atrial Fibrillation and comprehensive heart evaluations, prioritising your lifestyle and long-term well-being.

Services include diagnostic tests and advanced treatment options. Book an appointment today to take the first step towards a healthier heart.

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